The 2009 Miani "Filip" Merlot is an extreme cult wine from Enzo Pontoni, often cited as one of the few Italian Merlots that can rival the top growths of Pomerol for sheer concentration and depth. The nose is deep and incredibly "stony," dominated by crushed rocks, graphite, and chalk interwoven with blackberry jam, dark chocolate, and licorice. On the palate, it is a wine of "immense power and grace." It possesses a massive extract—almost chewable—yet remains light on its feet thanks to a vibrating mineral acidity. The finish is kaleidoscopic and seemingly endless.